Tetrazolium Red

Tetrazolium Red is used to visualize dehydrogenase enzyme activity. Initially the tetrazolium solution is colorless but changes to red when it comes into contact with hydrogen. Tetrazolium red is used in a biochemical viability test for seeds. The test relies on dehydrogenase enzymes to release hydrogen ions which subsequently reduce the colorless tetrazolium salt solution to a red compound called formazan. Living cells turn red while dead cells remain colorless.

Store at 5°C and protect from light.

Off white to yellowish powder Forms colorless to yellowish (practically clear) solution when dissolved 5% in ethanol or water.